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Myth Debunked

EthicsMisleading

The Myth

One person going vegan doesn't make any real difference

One person doesn't make a difference

Last reviewed: January 10, 2026

Quick Answer

Individual choices aggregate into market signals. One vegan saves approximately 100-200 animals per year, reduces demand that shapes supply, and influences social norms through visible example.

Evidence Summary

The claim: "My individual choice doesn't matter—I'm just one person." Why individual choices DO matter: 1. Direct impact on animals: One vegan saves approximately:

100-200 animals per year (varies by calculation method)
Over a lifetime: thousands of animals
These are real individuals who won't suffer 2. Market economics: - Demand drives supply
Your purchases are market signals
Reduced demand → reduced production
Already happening: plant milk has taken 15%+ of dairy

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